Alex Cromie and his wife Marie Ebert, a British couple in their early 30s, were killed alongside pilot Giorgos Raikos when their private helicopter crashed and caught fire on the Greek island of Sifnos during their honeymoon. The crash occurred in the Tholos area on Monday, according to local media reports.
Blackstone confirms death of colleague and wife
In a statement released to the Press Association, a representative for asset management firm Blackstone, where Mr Cromie worked as vice president in private wealth solutions, said: "We are shocked by the tragic passing of three people including our colleague Alex Cromie and his wife Marie Ebert, who were celebrating their honeymoon. Alex was beloved by everyone who knew and worked with him at Blackstone, and our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones."
According to his LinkedIn profile, Mr Cromie had been employed at Blackstone for four years, initially as an associate in private wealth solutions before being promoted to vice president last January. His wife, Marie Ebert, held a senior specialist position at management consultancy firm Bain and Company, as per her LinkedIn profile.
Crash details and emergency response
The Bell 206 helicopter departed from near the Greek capital on Monday, Athens newspaper Ta Nea reported. The pilot had announced he was preparing to land when all radio contact was lost. Local media reported that the helicopter plummeted rapidly before bursting into flames upon impact, with footage circulating on social media capturing smoke billowing from the wreckage.
Emergency services arrived at the scene at approximately 6.15pm local time. A representative for Bain and Company said: "We are shocked to read reports of a tragic accident in Greece regarding one of our colleagues and her husband. Our thoughts and support are with the families involved at this very difficult time."
Consular support and tributes
A representative for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office commented: "Our thoughts are with the families during this difficult time. We are providing consular support and are in contact with the Greek authorities."
The crash has prompted tributes from both companies, highlighting the loss of the couple and the pilot. The investigation into the cause of the crash, reportedly a mechanical failure, continues as Greek authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
